The Documentary Podcast Surviving a shark attack
Apr 4, 2026
Justine Barwick, sailor and shark-attack survivor who rebuilt her life after catastrophic injuries. Brett Connellan, surfer who recovered from a Great White encounter and now speaks in schools. Dave Pearson, survivor who founded The Bite Club to connect others. They recount the terrifying moments, discuss trauma, recovery, peer support and turning adversity into purpose.
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Bull Shark Attack Pulled Me Under
- Dave Pearson was attacked by a three-metre bull shark while paddling on a surfboard and had his forearm muscle and tendons severely damaged.
- He describes being pulled underwater, seeing the water go red, tucking his flap of muscle back together and getting help from friends who prevented him from dying.
Great White Tore Muscle During Surf
- Brett Connellan was surfing when a great white bit his left leg, tearing away large amounts of muscle and slicing his hand as he tried to fend it off.
- He recalls time stopping, feeling the shark's skin and black eye, using a wave to separate and being rescued by friend Joel and an off-duty ICU nurse on the beach.
Severe Thigh Bite Nearly Killed Me
- Justine Barwick was bitten in shallow water while on holiday; the shark removed the inside of her right thigh exposing bone and the femoral artery.
- She was stabilised on her boat with improvised bandaging for two hours before helicopter rescue and later had major reconstructive surgery.